A statement on Iran

By Ben Smith

06/13/09 01:21 PM EDT

The White House -- fully aware that any too overt backing for the Iranian opposition could be counterproductive -- issues a measured statement from Robert Gibbs:

Like the rest of the world, we were impressed by the vigorous debate and enthusiasm that this election generated, particularly among young Iranians. We continue to monitor the entire situation closely, including reports of irregularities.

UPDATE: Secretary Clinton, at Niagara Falls today, was even more restrained:

We watched closely the enthusiasm and the very vigorous debate and dialogue that occurred in the lead-up to the Iranian elections.

We are monitoring the situation as it unfolds in Iran. But we, like the rest of the world, are waiting and watching to see what the Iranian people decide. The United States has refrained from commenting on the election in Iran. We obviously hope that the outcome reflects the genuine will and desire of the Iranian people.